Remembrance, Reflection, and Renewal
As we gather on this Day of Atonement, we reflect on the journey our community has undertaken since the tragic events of October 7th one year ago. This Yom Kippur, we find ourselves at a crossroads of sorrow and hope, pain and resilience.
Remembrance and Unity
Our community’s commemoration of 10/7 was a powerful testament to our collective strength. We opened our hearts to the profound loss experienced by families, friends, and neighbors affected by the horrors of that day. We stood in solidarity with Jewish communities worldwide, affirming Israel’s right to self-defense while acknowledging the ongoing trauma that reverberates through our local community.
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The historical significance of 10/7 as a turning point in modern Jewish history cannot be overstated. It has taught us that while we cannot control the actions of others, we can and must stand ready to defend ourselves and our values. This painful lesson echoes the refrain of “never again,” reminding us of our responsibility to remain vigilant and united.
From Pain to Hope
In the face of this tragedy, our community has drawn strength from unexpected sources. The outpouring of support from friends, neighbors, colleagues, and interfaith leaders in San Antonio has been a beacon of hope in these dark times. Their presence and solidarity, especially in the face of rising antisemitism, demonstrate true courage and friendship.
We are particularly grateful for the support of our elected officials and law enforcement partners. Their allyship is a testament to the bonds that unite us as a community, transcending religious and cultural boundaries.
A Time for Reflection and Action
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, Yom Kippur calls us to reflect on our past and commit to a future of peace and fulfillment. The mixed emotions we carry – pain, trauma, and a longing for peace – are the very catalysts that can propel us toward positive change.
In this spirit, the Jewish Federation was honored to be invited on behalf of the Jewish community to the Bexar County Commissioners’ Court to receive a proclamation in support of Israel. This gesture, sponsored by Commissioner Grant Moody, was a powerful affirmation of our community’s place in the broader fabric of greater San Antonio. The presence of Hashayara, the Israeli band who moved us all with their performance on Monday evening (10/7), sang a song of Divine praise and hope for peace, which served as a beautiful bridge between our commemoration and our hopes for the future.
A Call to Action
As we enter this new year, let us commit to being agents of light in a world that this past year seemed shrouded in darkness. Each of us has the power to make a difference, to push back against the shadows of hatred and indifference.
I challenge each of us to start with one simple act of goodness:
- Reach out with a phone call to someone in need of connection
- Offer a helping hand to a neighbor facing challenges
- Commit to taking action for the greater good in our community
These small acts of kindness and compassion are the building blocks of a more just and peaceful world. They are the essence of our responsibility to tikkun olam – repairing the world.
As we fast and pray on this Yom Kippur, let us also feast on hope and possibility. May we emerge from this day with our souls refreshed, our purpose renewed, and our commitment to each other and to the betterment of our world strengthened.
May this new year bring healing, peace, and the fulfillment of our deepest hopes for ourselves, our community, and all of humanity. G’mar Chatimah Tovah – May we all be sealed in the Book of Life for a good, sweet, and safe year. Because we are…
Shabbat Shalom.
